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Sarnia-Lambton residents take the plunge for Right to Play

Dozens of brave Polar Bear Dippers took to the frigid waters of Lake Huron for a good cause, Saturday.

Sarnia's second annual Polar Bear Dip for Right to Play drew nearly 100 people to the Sarnia Riding Club, where participants ranged in age from 10 to 65, raising more than $6,000.

“I wanted to find an event that would really bring the community together, and promote this great cause,” said organizer Rebecca Joy.

The 22-year-old was impressed to see the event grow significantly from last year's 50 participants, who raised $5,000.

This time around, she had some help from the local sports community – including Olympic gymnast Dominique Pegg, and MMA fighter John Fraser, who brought their own teams of friends and family to the event.

“I really understand the importance of sport in kids' lives,” said Pegg. “So when (Rebecca) asked me to be a spokesperson, I was really excited.”

Fraser, of Supreme Martial Arts in Sarnia, brought a team of about 25 “Haggis Bashers” including members of the club, his wife, and children.

“A buddy of mine from work mentioned it to me, so I messaged these guys and they all got on board right away. I knew I'd have a great group behind me.”

Right to Play is an international organization that works to improve health and living conditions for children in disadvantaged areas through sport and play programs.

The group operates in 21 countries and helps hundreds of thousands of children, said Joy, pointing to initiatives like teaching disease prevention, proper nutrition and gender equality through sports and games.

Joy first got involved with Right to Play while attending Wilfrid Laurier University, and will intern with the Toronto-based agency next month.

Meanwhile, first time dipper Jack Vanderaa didn't hesitate when his son asked if he'd join in this year's event.

“I said, 'let's do it,'” said the 65-year-old, clad in his swim trunks and sandals. “I'm pretty sure I'm the oldest guy here. At least I can cross this off my bucket list.”